With so many questions on defense, the linebackers were expected to carry the load but so far that hasn't been the case. That changed on Saturday when the group stepped up to the challenge. Also, E.J. Manuel shows dramatic improvement from his last scrimmage, Christian Ponder continues to post...[details]

2008 (Freshman):At Florida State: Was a key contributor on special teams before a knee injury cost him his freshman season...received a medical redshirt after appearing in just three games...comes into his second season listed with fellow linebacker Nigel Bradham at second team on the strong side...one of only three true freshmen to play for FSU in 2007 and one of just two on the defensive side of the ball.

2007: Played in three games but did not appear in a game the rest of the year after suffering a knee injury against Colorado...recorded two tackles on special teams...one came in each game versus Clemson and Colorado...granted a medical redshirt.

High School: Graduated from Homestead High in 2007...rivals Top 100 in the state of Florida and a three-star prospect...Rivals lists him as one of the top 40 outside linebackers in the nation in 2007...ran the 40 in 4.4, benches 300 pounds and has a 35" vertical leap...won the Sparq competition at the NIKE combine in Miami finishing first among 400 athletes...had 112 tackles, 12 sacks, four forced fumbles and one interception in 2006...named first team All-Dade, first team all-state, Defensive MVP, Homestead News Leader's All-Star Team and was selected to play in the All-American Bowl and Dade/Broward All-star classic...also wrestled in high school winning the Dade County wrestling tournament...GMAC Champion wrestler and also a runner-up in districts...chose FSU over North Carolina, Ole Miss, Arizona State, Rutgers, NC State, Pittsburgh and Wisconsin.